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Federal Government Prohibits Mining at Shiroro Site Following Deadly Attack on 12 Minors

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 23rd, 2024.

Federal Government Prohibits Mining at Shiroro Site Following Deadly Attack on 12 Minors

The Federal Government has announced a ban on mining activities at the Shiroro site following the tragic killing of 12 miners by bandits in Unguwar Magro Village, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The authorities have vowed to seek justice for the victims and are actively pursuing the perpetrators to ensure they are held accountable.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, revealed that mining will be suspended at the attack site until a thorough investigation by security agencies is completed. Alake expressed deep sorrow over the violent deaths of the miners and assured that efforts are underway to enhance security across mining areas, addressing the threat posed by bandits and criminal elements involved in illegal mining activities.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, Alake emphasized that security forces are collaborating with intelligence units to address the attack. The goal is to track and understand the operations of the bandits, who are suspected to have entered Shiroro from neighboring states.

Alake warned that the Federal Government is taking a strong stance against banditry in the mining sector. “Those who believe they can invade villages and commit murder to facilitate illegal mining will find that things have changed,” he said. “We are committed to rooting out these criminals and holding them accountable.”

The minister also mentioned that initial reports suggest that some non-Nigerians involved in mining activities may be funding these criminal operations. He cautioned that such individuals will be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against the Nigerian State.

Alake also urged embassies in Nigeria to keep a close watch on their nationals involved in mining, as any criminal behavior could affect diplomatic relations between Nigeria and other nations.

On Wednesday, bandits attacked Unguwar Magro village in Gurmana ward of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, resulting in the death of approximately 13 individuals at a local mining site. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the miners, leaving a scene of devastation.